A Bay Area micro-hood.
City Limits
The enclave of Atherton is regularly ranked as the most expensive zip code in the United States, with the highest per capita income among U.S. small towns. In the 1800s, Atherton was known as Fair Oaks, and was a flag stop on the California Coast for the Southern Pacific Railroad between San Francisco and San José.
Native live oaks, white oaks, bays, redwoods, cedars, pines, and other ornamental trees still cover the six square miles of town, which is predominantly residential. This includes tracts of contemporary Eichler homes, most notably in the Lindenwood neighborhood on the northeast side. Atherton is also home to the Menlo Circus Club, a private club with tennis, swimming, horse stables, and a riding ring.
Atherton By the Numbers
Median Sale Price: The pinnacle of luxury, with a median range of $8.5M–$10.5M and top-tier estates reaching $25M+.
Sale-to-List Ratio: Highly competitive, with most properties selling at or near asking price due to strong buyer confidence.
Speed of Market: Brisk and robust; well-positioned properties move quickly as motivated buyers seek out unique opportunities.
Population: An intimate community of approximately 7,000 residents, prioritizing privacy and space.
Median Age: 49.1 years, reflecting a demographic of established professionals who value long-term prestige.
Median Household Income: Significant local wealth, with a median exceeding $250K and an average estimated at $580K.
#FairOaks
In 1923, Menlo Park wanted to incorporate its lands to include Fair Oaks (Atherton), which wanted to remain independent. Both groups rushed to Sacramento to make their case to the legislature, and the Fair Oaks committee arrived first — though they weren’t the first to claim their name. So the town incorporated as Atherton on Sept. 12, 1923.
#MostExpensivest
For the third year in a row, Atherton has been named the most expensive town in the United States. Its multi-million dollar estates attract a steady cohort of rich and famous neighbors, including Stephen Curry, Jerry Rice, Sheryl Sandberg, Meg Whitman, and Eric Schmidt.
WHERE TO GO: Chic’s Picks
Bear Gulch Reservoir – With a capacity of 166 million gallons, Bear Gulch is a local gem hiding in plain sight. About 20% of the tap water in Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley, and Woodside comes from Bear Gulch, with the other 80% from Hetch Hetchy in the Sierras. Locals enjoy fishing and boating on the relatively calm waters. Learn more
Holbrook-Palmer Park – The only public recreation site in the town limits, this municipally-owned, 22-acre garden setting features indoor and outdoor facilities, including a ball field, tennis courts, playground, gardens, and walking paths. Ms. Olive Holbrook-Palmer left the park to the town in 1958. Learn more
WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & HANG
Selby's – It is an upscale restaurant known for contemporary American cuisine, a carefully curated wine program, and polished service. The menu changes with the seasons and features ingredients sourced from local farms and producers. Located in a restored historic building, the restaurant offers an intimate dining room, bar, and private dining spaces, making it a popular choice for special occasions and evening dining. Learn more
Mademoiselle Colette – It is a French-inspired bakery and café offering freshly baked pastries, croissants, breads, coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The menu also includes savory dishes and aperitifs, making it a welcoming spot for a quick morning coffee, casual meal, or afternoon treat. Its Atherton location brings a relaxed French café atmosphere to the neighborhood. Learn more
Hurrica Restaurant & Bar – Hurrica brings a live-fire approach to waterfront dining. The menu moves between seafood, steaks, seasonal vegetables, and other dishes cooked over wood and embers. Add a good wine or cocktail, a view of the boats, and an easygoing setting, and it’s a spot that works just as well for a casual meal as it does for a night out. Learn more
